Jhelum (mnm.com.pk) The fort of Jhelum is associated with the view of a deep well with Rohtas footsteps, from where the whole army drank water.
This well or cup was built at the foot of the hills as a question mark within the strong walls of the fort built during the reign of Sher Shah Suri. Built through the mountains, this well meets the water needs of thousands of soldiers in the fort.
Historian and author Raja Noor Nizami says that the special thing about this well is that all the stones have been cut and installed in it. He said that there are 140 steps leading to the water and after every 15 steps a wide ladder is made where there is a place to stay.
Centuries have passed since the construction of this well, but even the weather could not defeat its strong walls. Its architecture is also a beautiful confluence of different cultures. Water was delivered to this bowl under the ground system.
Dr. Syed Arif, Deputy Director, Taxila Institute of Asian Civilization, Islamabad, said that there was plenty of water in the well. As far as its source is concerned, the entire army and the people drank water here. The water may have been brought by groundwater rivers.
He said that even today there is water in it but due to lack of knowledge of the large population and culture, people have thrown stones inside it and blocked it. He added that if the government fixes it again, it could be a huge asset.
Experts say it is a living example of Baoli Sher Shah Suri's far-sightedness and military strategy.
